Mbabane – Deepavali, India’s widely celebrated Festival of Lights, has been added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was delivered during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, hosted at the Red Fort in New Delhi from 8 to 13 December 2025.
According to the High Commission of India in Mbabane, the inscription follows UNESCO’s detailed evaluation process, which considers authenticity, safeguarding plans and the involvement of communities that uphold the tradition. Deepavali becomes the 16th cultural practice from India to be recognised, joining Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, the Durga Puja of Kolkata, the Garba dance of Gujarat and the Kumbh Mela.
Observed across India and within Indian communities around the world, including those living in Eswatini, the festival carries strong themes of hope, renewal and unity. Families mark the occasion with prayers, the lighting of lamps, fireworks and the sharing of sweets. The festival is known for its message of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. 
To celebrate the recognition, the High Commission of India hosted a special event at its chancery in Mbabane. The building was decorated with festival lights, creating an atmosphere familiar to Diwali gatherings. A ceremonial lamp was lit by High Commissioner N Ram Prasad together with National Project Officer Mandisa Zwane, Sithabile Mlipha, Dr Bethusile Mahlalela from UNESCO and Dr Swapnika from the Indian diaspora.
During the ceremony, Ms Zwane conveyed her wishes to India following the inscription. The High Commissioner then spoke about the diverse ways in which Deepavali is observed across different regions of India. A short film on Deepavali was screened to give guests a broader understanding of the festival’s traditions.
Following the inscription, India carries the responsibility of safeguarding Deepavali’s cultural practices, ensuring they are protected from commercial pressure and passed on to future generations.
